Preventive Dentistry
Preventative dentistry is a proactive branch of dental care that focuses on preventing oral health concerns and the early intervention of potential dental issues. Rather than wait until a dental issue develops, preventative dentistry encompasses an array of dental procedures and education to help patients maintain their oral health, mitigating the risk of problems.
Preventive Dentistry Services
- Dental Exams: Our Dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and mouth. This exam is to proactively look for signs of gum disease or other dental problems.
- Dental Cleanings: A dentist or a dental hygienist will perform your routine teeth cleaning by removing built-up plaque and tartar, flossing, and polishing your teeth. Regular cleaning prevents gum diseases, cavities, bad breath, and other dental problems. You should schedule regular cleanings at least twice a year.
- Digital X-rays: Dentists use X-rays to diagnose dental diseases that cannot be seen with the naked eye or instruments. X-rays help to determine what is going on beneath the tooth surface and the state of jaw health
- Periodontal care: Healthy gums are just as important as healthy teeth. We provide preventive treatments and therapies to stop gum disease in its tracks and keep your gums strong and disease-free.
Oral Cancer Screening
Dentists are often the first health professionals to notice the signs of oral cancer, which can appear inside the mouth and throat or on the tonsils and tongue. Dental checkups can save your life by detecting oral cancer early. That’s one more good reason to see your dentist regularly for a thorough dental exam.
Dental Cleaning
A dental cleaning is part of an annual dental check-up, which needs to be made at least once, if not twice, a year. Even if you feel that your teeth are clean, it really is necessary for a dental professional to perform a thorough examination in order to be sure as the beginning stages of gum disease are often hard to detect.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is especially helpful if you’re at high risk of developing dental caries, or cavities. Cavities occur when bacteria build up on teeth and gums and form a sticky layer of plaque. Plaque produces an acid that erodes teeth and gum tissue. If the plaque breaks down the enamel layer, bacteria can infect and harm the nerves and blood at the core of the tooth. Fluoride benefits both children and adults.
Occlusal Guard
The term “occlusal” refers to the surfaces of your teeth that are used for chewing. When you are damaging those surfaces by clenching or grinding your teeth. It helps prevent damage to your teeth that can be caused by grinding and clenching. Occlusal guards can also help alleviate the symptoms associated with bruxism, including jaw pain, head and neck muscle pain, tooth wear and fracture, tooth sensitivity.
Book Your Appointment Today!
Want to boost your oral health and keep your smile bright and healthy? Call us now and we’ll schedule an appointment for your visit!
Call us today at (508) 290-8714 or fill out our online form to schedule your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Preventive dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on maintaining oral health and preventing dental problems before they occur. It involves various practices and measures to keep teeth and gums healthy.
Preventive dentistry helps to avoid dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and enamel wear. By adopting preventive measures, individuals can save time, money, and discomfort associated with more extensive dental treatments.
Common preventive practices include regular dental check-ups, daily brushing and flossing, a balanced diet, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. These practices help prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease.
It is generally recommended to visit the dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. However, the frequency may vary depending on individual oral health needs. Your dentist will provide guidance based on your specific situation.
Yes, fluoride is crucial for preventing tooth decay. It helps strengthen tooth enamel and makes teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth. Fluoride is often present in toothpaste, mouthwash, and some community water supplies.
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). They act as a barrier, preventing bacteria and plaque from settling into the grooves and pits of the teeth, reducing the risk of cavities.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for overall health, including oral health. Calcium and phosphorus are particularly important for strong teeth. Limiting sugary and acidic foods can help prevent tooth decay and erosion.
Yes, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, is crucial for preventing gum disease. Professional dental cleanings also help remove plaque and tartar that can contribute to gum problems.
Absolutely. Starting preventive measures early in life, such as regular dental check-ups, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants, can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and other dental issues in children.
Many dental insurance plans cover preventive services, such as regular check-ups and cleanings, at little to no cost. However, coverage may vary, so it’s important to check with your insurance provider for details.
Accepted Insurance Plans - Oxford Smiles, Marlborough
We strive to make dental care affordable and accessible for all our patients. That's why we accept most major insurances, and will work with you to help you understand your plan and maximize your benefits. If you have questions about insurance, or anything at all, give us a call to speak with one of our friendly insurance experts. Don’t see your insurance listed? Give us a call on (508) 290-8714, and we’ll walk you through all your options!
No Insurance? No Problem. We have Quality Membership Plans and Flexible Financing Options, Quality dental care is an investment in your health and happiness, and we believe that the cost of treatment should never get in the way of your ideal smile. Because of this, we work with trusted healthcare lenders so you can create payment plans that fit your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
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We take great pride in extending our exceptional care to patients not only within Marlborough but also from diverse locations, ensuring that our commitment to service reaches beyond boundaries.
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We take great pride in extending our exceptional care to patients not only
within Marlborough but also from diverse locations, ensuring that our
commitment to service reaches beyond boundaries.
- Framingham
- Westborough
- HudsoN
- Shrewsbury
- Southborough
- Northborough
- Hopkinton
- Ashland
- Marlborough
- Auburn
- Maynard
- Bolton